When planning a trip to the riverine wonders of Bangladesh, Saint Martin's Island is the first name that comes to mind for many travelers. Located in the Bay of Bengal, it is the only coral atoll in the country and lies at the southernmost tip of Bangladesh’s mainland.
**The Story Behind the Name "Saint Martin"**
The name *Saint Martin’s Island* has an intriguing history, shaped by both trade and local lore. According to Professor Mustafa Kamal Pasha of the Botany Department at Chittagong University, the island was first brought to the attention of Arab traders around 250 years ago, during their maritime trade routes with Southeast Asia. These traders referred to the island as *Jazira*, meaning "peninsula" in Arabic. Later, the local people began calling it *Narikel Jinjira*, which translates to "island of coconuts," due to the abundance of coconut trees that dotted the landscape.
During British colonial rule, in the early 1900s, the island was included in a land survey and became part of British-Indian territory. Professor Bakhtiar Uddin, a colleague of Kamal Pasha, suggests that the island was named after Martin, the District Commissioner of Chittagong at the time. However, the Bangladesh Tourism Corporation cites another theory: the island’s name is likely derived from a Christian saint named Martin. Over time, the saint’s name became associated with the island, giving it its current name, *Saint Martin’s Island*.
**Specialties of Saint Martin Island**
Saint Martin’s Island offers a wealth of natural beauty and unforgettable experiences that make it a must-visit destination. As you travel by boat from Teknaf to the island, the sight of white terns soaring over the foamy waters is a magical moment, filling you with a sense of freedom as you cross the vast sea. The island itself, though small, is divided into seven distinct areas, each with its own charm, yet all interwoven like threads in a tapestry.
On the west coast of the island, the sunset is an experience that will stay with you forever. There's nothing quite like watching the sun dip below the horizon, with a cup of tea in hand, on a cool autumn evening. The western beaches are particularly stunning, with golden sands stretching out to meet the sea. On the other hand, the East Beach is ideal for sunny mornings. The view of the first light of day casting over the mountains of Myanmar from this beach is a breathtaking sight, sure to captivate any visitor.
At the southernmost tip of the island lies the *last point* of Bangladesh, surrounded by coral reefs. This part of the island is isolated from the rest during the monsoon season, making it a unique spot to visit. The crystal-clear waters and stunning sunbathing spots here are perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
For adventure seekers, Saint Martin’s offers exciting activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, and even beachside barbecues. Whether you're exploring the vibrant underwater world or relaxing on the sandy shores, the island has something for everyone. If you don't spend at least one full day here, you're sure to leave with a sense of regret—you won't want to miss the island’s charm and tranquility.
**Best Time to Visit Saint Martin's Island**
The best time to visit Saint Martin's Island is during the winter and spring months, from November to mid-April. During this period, the regular passenger ships run smoothly between Teknaf and Saint Martin's, offering a comfortable and scenic two-hour journey. The weather is calm, the sea is relatively peaceful, and the overall travel experience is much more enjoyable and safe.
In contrast, during the off-peak seasons, the sea can be rough, making the trip less predictable. At these times, only trawlers or speedboats are available, which can be less reliable. However, one advantage of visiting during the off-season is that hotel rates on the island are significantly lower, making it an attractive option for budget travelers.
For a hassle-free and safe journey, it’s recommended to plan your trip during the winter months when the weather is more favorable for both the sea and the travel experience.
**How to Get to Saint Martin's Island from Dhaka**
To reach Saint Martin's Island, you first need to get to Teknaf, the southernmost town of Bangladesh. There are two main ways to get to Teknaf from Dhaka: by road or by air.
**By Road:**
You can take an AC or non-AC bus from various locations in Dhaka, such as Kala Bagan, Fakirapool, or Syedabad. The journey typically takes between 10 to 12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Bus ticket prices range from Tk 900 to Tk 2,000, depending on the type of bus.
**By Air:**
For a faster option, you can fly from Dhaka to Cox's Bazar, which takes about an hour. Airfare typically ranges from Tk 4,200 to Tk 11,000, depending on the airline and the class you choose. Once you reach Cox's Bazar, you can take a bus or microbus to Teknaf, which takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. The bus fare is around Tk 180, while hiring a microbus (with seating for 8-10 people) costs between Tk 3,000 to Tk 4,500.
**From Teknaf to Saint Martin’s Island:**
Once in Teknaf, you’ll need to head to the Teknaf Jetty for the boat ride to Saint Martin’s Island. The ships depart at 9:30 AM, so it’s important to arrive at the jetty at least an hour before departure to complete ticketing and boarding. Ship fares range from Tk 650 to Tk 1,600, depending on the company and the class of service. The boat journey takes approximately two and a half hours, with the ships reaching Saint Martin’s Island by around 12:00 PM.
The return journey to Teknaf departs around 3:00 PM. It’s important to keep this schedule in mind when planning your visit to Saint Martin’s Island.
**Overnight Stay on Saint Martin’s Island Tour**
Spending the night on Saint Martin’s Island is a dream for many Bangladeshi tourists, inspired by the writings of legendary author and filmmaker Humayun Ahmed, who romanticized the island’s tranquil beauty. Over the years, Saint Martin’s has become a popular tourist destination, and the island now offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets.
For those seeking a more luxurious stay, there are several upscale hotels and resorts on the island. Prices range from Tk 1,500 to Tk 15,000 per person per night, depending on the type of accommodation and room category. If you're planning to visit during the peak travel seasons (winter and spring), it's highly recommended to book your stay in advance to ensure availability.
For travelers who prefer a more local experience and wish to avoid the luxury of hotels, homestays with local residents are an excellent option. By directly contacting locals, you can find simple yet comfortable rooms ranging from Tk 500 to Tk 800 per night, depending on the season.
**Local Cuisine of Saint Martin’s Island**
Once known as *Coconut Jinjira*, Saint Martin’s Island is still famous for its abundance of coconuts. No visit is complete without sampling the island’s refreshing coconut water, which is a beloved treat for visitors. But Saint Martin is also a paradise for seafood lovers, offering a rich variety of marine delicacies that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
The island’s waters are home to treasures like *coral*, *sundari poa*, *hilsa*, *roopchanda*, *lobster*, and *calachanda*, all of which can be enjoyed freshly prepared at local hotels and resorts. Many places also offer the option of a barbecue, where you can choose your fish and have it cooked to your liking.
Another popular dish on the island is *Kurra meat*—local chicken, known as *Kura*, which is a must-try for those looking to savor the island’s traditional flavors. Along with these, you’ll find a variety of other local treats like *laitya*, *churi*, *roopchanda*, and *cuttlefish*, all contributing to the island’s unique culinary charm.
**Important Precautions When Traveling to Saint Martin’s Island**
While traveling to Saint Martin's Island, there are a few important precautions to keep in mind:
1. **Carry Your National ID:** Due to security concerns, especially with the Rohingya issue, it's essential to carry your national identity card. There are occasional checks between Cox's Bazar and Teknaf, so make sure you have it with you at all times.
2. **Coral Reefs:** Saint Martin’s is known for its beautiful coral reefs, but some of them can be quite sharp. Be cautious when walking on or near the reefs to avoid cuts and injuries.
3. **Coastal Weather:** Always check the local weather before your trip, especially during the monsoon season. While the sea conditions are generally favorable in winter, it’s important to be aware of potential weather changes.
4. **Avoid Low Tide on the Beach:** The beach can be dangerous during low tide, so it’s best to avoid going near the water at those times.
5. **Life Jackets:** When traveling by boat around Saint Martin’s Island, always wear a life jacket for safety.
6. **Respect the Environment:** Travel is about enjoyment, but it’s essential to be mindful of the local community and environment. Keep noise levels down, avoid littering, and never throw plastic or trash into the sea, especially on the beaches. Preserving the island’s pristine beauty is everyone’s responsibility.
**Final Thoughts**
For every nature lover, visiting Saint Martin’s Island is a dream come true. Once experienced, the island’s charm continues to call you back. It’s the collective responsibility of every citizen of Bangladesh—and every visitor—to preserve the island’s natural beauty and protect its ecosystem. By doing our part, we can ensure that future generations will be able to experience the magic of Saint Martin’s Island just as we have, in all its unspoiled glory. So, let’s cherish and protect this incredible resource for years to come.
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